At the local water park, Klara was standing in line for an activity where you have to cross the pool by stepping on little inflated pontoons while holding yourself up with a cable rope. I stood next to her to make company.
A very young lifeguard thought that I was queuing up for the activity. To warn me that my age was inappropriate, he said, “I am sorry, ma’am. I don’t want to presume, and I apologize in advance, but this is for ages 16 and under only.” I congratulated the young man on his exceptional politeness and tact with which he delivered the not-unwelcome message that I was out of my teens.
It’s very encouraging to see this kind of politeness in someone so young. I would have done a much worse job at his age. American children and teenagers are the most polite I’ve seen anywhere.
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